I have someone on my staff who is very moody, which can have a real impact on the whole vibe in the department. Is that something I can talk to her about . . . or even discipline?
We had a boss one time (many years ago, I will point out, to protect the innocent) who was that way — so much so that we started referring to her moods in weather-forecast terms (“Storm clouds on the horizon”), and the receptionist would give us real-time early warnings when the boss walked through the door. A person’s behavior and influence on the culture is definitely a material factor in one’s employment, and you have every right to expect and require that people create a positive work environment. But before you start documenting the mood swings — why not have a conversation first? Maybe the person is unaware of how much impact her moods have on others. Maybe her moods are a medical issue or a symptom of some personal problems. Even though it’s not your business to pry on the cause of the mood swings, you can point out how they are affecting others and the work environment.
I’m looking for an internship but want to get one on my own and not as a result of family connections. My mom and dad think that’s crazy, since they can hook me up pretty easily. What are your thoughts?
I think you’re crazy — in a good, admirable and naive sort of way. It’s amazing you want to achieve on your own merits — it’s refreshing, considering how entitled some kids today act. The reality is that there is no reason to be apologetic about using connections to find an internship — or even landing a job. Every smart, successful person uses his or her network throughout his or her career. And long-term success is based on your individual talent, not how you got your foot in the door. If you don’t want Mom and Dad’s help because you think it will look bad, or like you didn’t achieve something on your own merit, you are mistaken. However, if it is important to you to do this on your own without their help for your own personal reasons, well, who can argue with that?